LuxSpace, a subsidiary of Bremen-based space technology group OHB SE, is to conduct research into new and innovative approaches to aircraft positioning and monitoring based on the ADS-B (Automatic Dependent Suveillance-Broadcast) process for the European Space Agency (ESA).

Known as “AirTracks,” the nine-month study will be developing new services for monitoring manned and unmanned aircraft. They will be used by small and mid-size airports, air traffic controllers and ground staff, allowing them to monitor flight movements more effectively. In this way, it will be possible to monitor airspace more efficiently and particularly also more safely.

The study is to be followed by a demonstration project to develop the most promising ADS-B-based approaches for commercial use in conjunction with potential customers. With the ADS-B process, aircraft are able to determine their position by using the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) and transmitting this data regularly to ground stations and other aircraft. The study is being conducted with the support of the ESA-ARTES Business Applications Program. Other partners alongside LuxSpace include the German Aerospace Center (DLR), Tekever (United Kingdom) and ANA (Air Navigation Administration) Luxembourg.

For OHB SE, the “AirTracks” project marks a further key contribution towards the strategic goal of expanding service business within the Group.

Marco Fuchs, CEO, OHB SE.

Marco Fuchs, CEO of OHB SE, reported that LuxSpace is playing a pioneering role within the OHB Group in the creation of new services and applications for security and the maritime sector. The company will be leveraging its long-standing experience in managing ship position data in this project for monitoring airspace.

Dr. Gerd Eiden, head of space applications at LuxSpace, explained that ADS-B is a key technology for providing a wide range of traffic monitoring and management services. With this study, business models will be devised that go beyond the previous scope and will also result in the offering of new, value-added services.